As administrative associate and fellowship administrator in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Cynthia Calhoun is known for exceeding expectations. Her co-workers call her the glue that holds the division together and someone who can always be counted on to meet deadlines and goals.
“Cyndi is helpful to a fault and meets the demands of her job with a smile,” said J. Allen D. Cooper, M.D., director of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Fellowship Program. “She has taught me and others in our division to maintain a positive attitude during adverse times.”
Calhoun has been with UAB since September 1984, spending her entire career in the same unit. For her dedication and hard work, she has been named March Employee of the Month.
Thyrza Johnson, program manager in the division, said Calhoun has the best attitude of anyone she has ever met.
“I have never once heard her complain or moan about her job or dealing with incoming or outgoing fellows,” Johnson said. “She has a constantly good attitude, which seems to rub off onto others even when they don’t know it.”
Being the fellowship coordinator keeps her busy, Calhoun said. She loves her job and finds it easy to remain passionate about her work because of the personal ties she creates there.
“Being the youngest of six siblings, I always wanted a large family,” Calhoun said. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to have children of my own, but the good Lord put me in a position where I could be the ‘pulmonary mama’ to a great group of fellows.”
Her attitude is exemplified by the relationships she forms with them, often receiving holiday cards and birth announcements from past fellows.
“I watch them grow into competent, confident and compassionate physicians,” Calhoun said. “It’s amazing how, in just three short years, the trainee becomes the teacher. I love it when they keep in touch.”
| Each month, UAB recognizes an outstanding employee for their dedication, hard work and contributions to the university’s success. If you know of a great employee, you can learn how to nominate them for this recognition at uab.edu/humanresources. |
Calhoun is responsible for the monthly “Pulmonary Newsletter” and is resident event planner for fellow graduations, annual meetings, divisional picnics and other events.
Cooper said Calhoun often attends professional development training to improve her skills and is known for her professionalism and openness.
“Cyndi is an excellent administrative associate, program coordinator, event planner and team builder,” Cooper said. “She wears many hats and wears them well. Our division has been a much better place to work because of her presence over the years.”
When Calhoun isn’t at work she said she enjoys spending time with her husband Chuck and their five pets at the lake. She also enjoys arts and crafts, cooking, photography, fishing, arranging flowers and shopping.
“The members of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine are really like a family,” Calhoun said. “That is why I have stayed in here all these years. We are all on the same team, and we all pull together to get the job done.”